Peanut
arachis hypogaea
Also known as: ["Groundnut","Monkey nut","Earthnut"]
Overview
A legume crop grown for its edible seeds, which develop underground after pollination.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","drought tolerant","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Arachis |
| Botanical Name: | Arachis hypogaea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–32°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Loamy, well-draining soil with organic matter; sandy soils can work if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically light pruning after harvest or during dormancy.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning as it may reduce pod yield.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); adjust for extreme heat by providing partial shade during peak afternoon hours.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate seedlings gradually to full sun; avoid sudden exposure to intense light; provide shade nets if grown in very hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use reflective mulch to enhance light reflection; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in dormant periods
Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil is moist but not waterlogged; adjust based on weather and growth stage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.8–6.5).
Test soil pH; amend with organic matter; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (70–95°F/21–35°C); prefers stable conditions; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure adequate ventilation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced fertilizer, ceasing in winter
Apply fertilizer at half-strength to avoid burning roots; water before fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; avoid foliage contact.
Propagation
Methods
Seeds (direct sowing or indoor starting); vegetative propagation is not common for peanuts.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds 1–2 inches deep.
- Space plants 6–8 inches apart.
- Thin seedlings if necessary.
Best Time: Spring, after the last frost when soil temperatures are consistently above 65°F (18°C).
Environment
Warm, sunny conditions; well-drained soil; consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix; can be started in pots or directly in garden beds.
Hormone
Not required for seed propagation.
Timeline
Germination in 1–2 weeks; flowering in 2–3 months; pod development in 4–5 months.
Tools Needed
Garden trowel, watering can, seed-starting trays (if starting indoors).
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in warm soil; keep soil consistently moist; protect young plants from pests.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves; trim back overgrown stems to maintain shape.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors.
Checklist
Inspect for dead/damaged foliage; sanitize tools; prune carefully to avoid stem damage.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Not applicable; if grown in containers, repot in spring if root-bound.
Pot Size
Not applicable; if repotting, choose a pot 1 size larger with good drainage.
Method
Not applicable; if repotting, use fresh well-draining soil and ensure adequate space for root growth.
Suggestions
Not typically repotted; peanuts are usually grown as annuals in garden beds or large containers.
Checklist
Not applicable; if repotting, check root health, use fresh soil, and ensure proper drainage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is evenly moist; ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage root growth; allow excess water to drain away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the soil surface is dry to the touch; reduce frequency during dormant periods; increase during flowering and pod development.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate sand or perlite for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or necrosis in leaves; stunted growth; poor flowering or pod development.
Cold Stress
Growth halts; flowers and pods may abort; risk of frost damage or death in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Provide frost protection; use row covers or cloches; plant in warmer microclimates or protected areas.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced pod yield; potential for heat-induced flower drop.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply to soil only.
Fertilizing Method
Balanced NPK fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) applied every 4–6 weeks during active growth; reduce or stop during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicSimilar to dogs, peanuts are not toxic to cats in small amounts but can cause digestive issues. Moldy peanuts containing aflatoxins are particularly dangerous and can lead to severe liver damage in cats.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten, especially in large quantities or if moldy
Dogs
ToxicPeanuts are not inherently toxic to dogs in small amounts, but they can cause digestive upset. Moldy peanuts contain aflatoxins, which are highly toxic and can lead to liver damage and failure in dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten, especially in large quantities or if moldy
Humans
Non-toxicArachis hypogaea, commonly known as peanut, is generally non-toxic when consumed in typical dietary amounts. It is a nutrient-rich food source for humans, providing protein, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals. However, it can cause severe allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in normal quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are peanuts good for health?
A: Yes, peanuts are rich in protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Q: Can peanuts be grown in containers?
A: Yes, peanuts can be grown in large containers with well-draining soil.
Q: How long does it take for peanuts to grow?
A: Peanuts typically take 120–150 days from planting to harvest.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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